Sedum Obtusatum

Description

Sedum Obtusatum, also commonly known as Sierran Stonecrop or Sierra Stonecrop, is a succulent plant species belonging to the Crassulaceae family. It is native to the western United States and can be found in rocky, mountainous areas with well-draining soil.This plant is a low-growing, mat-forming perennial with green, fleshy leaves that are arranged in a rosette pattern. The leaves are oval-shaped and have a blunt tip, hence the name “obtusatum”, which means “blunt” in Latin. During the summer, Sedum Obtusatum produces small, star-shaped yellow flowers that grow in clusters on top of stems that rise above the foliage.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Sedum Obtusatum is a small, low-growing plant that typically reaches a height of only 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) and a spread of 12-18 inches (30-45 cm). Its leaves are fleshy and green, with a slightly waxy texture. They are oval-shaped and arranged in rosettes, with the newer leaves growing in the center and the older leaves on the outside.During the summer, Sedum Obtusatum produces clusters of small, star-shaped yellow flowers that grow on top of stems that rise above the foliage. The flowers are about 0.25 inches (0.6 cm) in diameter and have five petals that curve slightly backward. They attract bees and butterflies and are followed by small, dry seed pods.

Care Guide

Sedum Obtusatum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for, making it an excellent choice for beginners. Here are some tips to help you keep your plant healthy and thriving:Water: Sedum Obtusatum is drought-tolerant and can survive in dry conditions, but it still needs occasional watering to thrive. Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch, but be careful not to overwater it, as this can cause root rot. Allow the soil to dry out completely between watering.Fertilization: Sedum Obtusatum does not require fertilizer, but you can give it a boost of nutrients by applying a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.Soil: Sedum Obtusatum prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. It can tolerate poor soil as long as it is well-draining.Sunlight: Sedum Obtusatum prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may become leggy and less compact.Hardiness Zones: Sedum Obtusatum is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 4-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Sedum Obtusatum is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by a few common issues:Mealybugs: These small, white insects can infest the plant and suck the sap from its leaves. They can be controlled by wiping the leaves with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.Root rot: This fungal disease can occur if the plant is overwatered or the soil does not drain properly. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not water the plant too often.

Habitat

Sedum Obtusatum is native to the western United States and can be found in rocky, mountainous areas with well-draining soil. It is a hardy plant that is adapted to dry conditions and can survive in harsh environments. It is often used in rock gardens, as a groundcover, or in containers.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Sedum Obtusatum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Sedum Obtusatum can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a sunny window and the soil is well-draining.Q: Can Sedum Obtusatum be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Sedum Obtusatum can be propagated from stem or leaf cuttings. Simply cut a stem or leaf and place it in well-draining soil, keeping it moist until new growth appears.Q: How often should Sedum Obtusatum be fertilized?
A: Sedum Obtusatum does not require fertilizer, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring if desired.Q: How tall does Sedum Obtusatum grow?
A: Sedum Obtusatum typically reaches a height of only 2-4 inches (5-10 cm).

Related Plants

Here are some other plants in the Sedum genus that are related to Sedum Obtusatum:

• Sedum album
• Sedum acre
• Sedum kamtschaticum
• Sedum reflexum
• Sedum spectabile

References

• “Sedum Obtusatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d112.
• “Sedum Obtusatum.” Plant of the Week. https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/sedum_obtusatum.shtml.
• “Sierran Stonecrop.” High Country Gardens. https://www.highcountrygardens.com/perennial-plants/sedum/sedum-obtusatum.